Translation guide
The English verb "exceed" covers several related ideas: going beyond a limit, being greater than a number, and surpassing expectations. Japanese uses different words and patterns depending on what is being exceeded.
To surpass a set limit, such as a speed limit, budget, or time limit.
The most common and versatile verb for exceeding a limit or standard. Used for speed, weight, budget, expectations, etc.
制限速度を超えると罰金です。
If you exceed the speed limit, you'll be fined.
予算を超えてしまった。
We went over budget.
A more formal, often written term for exceeding a limit, especially in official or technical contexts.
重量制限を超過した荷物はお預かりできません。
Luggage that exceeds the weight limit cannot be accepted.
Used when a number or amount is greater than another. Often used in news or reports.
今年の売上は目標を上回った。
This year's sales exceeded the target.
To be more than a specific number, value, or quantity.
A simple pattern meaning 'is more than ~'. Use with numbers.
参加者は100人以上だった。
The number of participants exceeded 100.
Also used for numbers, but often implies going beyond a threshold.
気温が35度を超えた。
The temperature exceeded 35 degrees.
To do better than expected or to be beyond someone's ability.
Commonly used for results that exceed expectations or forecasts.
彼の演技は期待を上回った。
His performance exceeded expectations.
Can be used for surpassing expectations, but often with a nuance of going beyond a known limit.
Means 'beyond one's control' or 'too much to handle'. Used when a situation exceeds one's ability to manage.
超える is the most general and can be used in casual and formal settings. 超過する is formal and often used for official limits (time, weight, budget). 上回る is used when comparing numbers or results, often in business or news contexts.
The English adverb 'exceedingly' (very) is not translated with 超える. Use 非常に (ひじょうに) or とても instead.
規定の用量を超えないでください。
Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
費用は見積もりを上回った。
The cost exceeded our estimate.
That movie exceeded my imagination.
This problem exceeds my ability to handle.